Development of an oil or gas reservoir is controlled using a neural network and genetic algorithm program to define a neural network topology and the optimal inputs for that topology. The topology is defined from identified and selected parameters (1) associated with the formation or formations in which actual wells are drilled in the reservoir, and (2) associated with the drilling, completion and stimulation of those wells, and (3) associated with the oil or gas production from the wells. Subsequent drilling, completion and stimulation of the reservoir is determined and applied based on hypothetical alternatives input to the topology and resulting outputs.